A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW of youth vaping in the US has concluded that the harm from vaping is greatly exaggerated and that vaping is unlikely to be causing an increase in youth smoking.
The review by leading researcher Professor Riccardo Polosa and colleagues was published today in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.
The review is a timely response to the regular alarmist media reports and government campaigns on vaping in Australia which have increased fears and misinformed the public.
There is a strong pattern of Australian media stories focussing on negative and sensational news about vaping and presenting one-sided views. Almost certainly, this positive review will get minimal or no media coverage.
Polosa is clear that vaping is a legitimate concern for young people. Young people should not vape, but many will do so despite what adults tell them, just as many binge drink, take illicit drugs and other risks. It is important that “authorities must enforce current regulations addressing illicit sales to minors”.
Key findings of the review are:
There is no teen vaping ‘epidemic’ in the US
Vaping rates rose substantially over the last decade but fell by 60% from 2019 to 2021 and vaping may be a passing fad, like fidget spinners. Most vaping is by young people who have previously smoked.
First Last – Outlet – 2022-06-23.